Martin St-Louis Makes First Big Decision on Ivan Demidov's Role Ahead of Upcoming Season

That said, we must not forget that Demidov played on the third, and even the fourth line last season (especially in the playoffs).

We took it for granted, but it's easy to forget that players like Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, and Jack Hughes didn't even start their NHL careers in the top six, but rather on a third line.

So maybe it was a bit premature to take this for granted, but in any case, it was also accurate.

This is exactly what we were hoping for.

Rest assured.

We won't have any unpleasant surprises in that regard.

Now, will it be on the first or second line?

That's what I'm eager to see, but I imagine he'll indeed start on the second line (probably with Patrik Laine), with the possibility of joining Nick Suzuki's line if needed, especially knowing the update Kent Hughes made on Kirby Dach's health as they prepare offensive replacement.

Finding a good second-line center will obviously be very important for the Montreal Canadiens' success this season, but it will also be very important to help Ivan Demidov who, at only 19 years old, will immediately be sent into an NHL top-six role.

It really shows how much the Canadiens believe in him!

It will be up to young Demidov to show he's ready for this rather colossal challenge.